Whenever Ridge releases a new wine, I get excited. After tasting the debut vintage of their 2025 Coast Range Red, I'm even more excited!
This wild and crazy blend of 59% Zinfandel, 18% Carignane, 13% Petite Sirah, and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon is generating plenty of buzz among wine geeks, and the reviews have been overwhelmingly positive. Leave it to the fine folks at Ridge, one of our country's greatest producers, to make such a charming, unconventional, and remarkably affordable red.
I've been drinking Ridge's wines for 30 years, and outside of a couple of corked bottles, I've never had one that didn't truly impress me. The 2025 Coast Range Red is no exception. Drawing primarily from Sonoma County vineyards, with additional fruit from Contra Costa, Santa Cruz, and Napa counties, it's another terrific example of Ridge's ability to deliver character and quality at a very reasonable price.
What I love most about this wine is its freshness and medium-bodied profile. There's generosity here, but without the weight or syrup-y character that can sometimes accompany California red blends. The fruit is bright and lively, with supple flavors and a savory, peppery edge that keeps everything interesting. It feels wonderfully unforced, with the kind of immediate appeal that makes you want another glass.
Wine Spectator's Tim Fish agrees, awarding the wine 91 points and describing it as "generous and fun to drink, with supple flavors of cherry, red plum, licorice and savory pepper that end on a zesty accent." Vinous Media loved it too, rating it 92 points and declaring, "You'd be hard pressed to find more bang for your buck anywhere in the United States."
I'm glad I ordered when I did because right after my order filled, my sales rep let me know they were sold out. If you get some of this "comfort wine," enjoy it with comfort foods like burgers, pizza, or a big bowl of pasta.
Josh Spurling
Owner, Operator, Wine Monger
Table Wine Asheville
